Turtle's neck skin is pink, is something wrong?

Question

One of my turtles has a pinkish tinge to the skin on its neck. Is it sick? They are also shedding their shells. I have 2 turtles.

Answer 1

Shedding there shells is a red flag, sounds like you dont have the proper filtration and basking area for them.
Turtles are very dirty animals and pollute there water fast, this causes bacteria to build up on there skin and shells causing sores and rot.
You need a powerful filter and a uv heat light above a pile of rocks for them to bask on, they will bask for 12 to 14 hours at a time, then soak for a few days.
Go to the pet store ask to see there fluval canister filters and day glo heat bulbs and fixtures, going to cost you a couple of hundred dollars, but your turtles will love you for it.

Answer 2

Turtle Pink Skin

Answer 3

This may be a simple case of a RES that is overweight. A proper diet must be introduced to correct and prevent any additional problems such as pyramiding. If there is swelling in the rear of a female, it is possible there is egg retention. If there are other symptoms, such as color or breathing changes, you may suspect the presence of an infection.


go to http://www.redearslider.com/forum and ask this question and the people there will know what is happening with your turtle. Although what i put above, that might be right or wrong. You should also get your 2 turtles to the vet ASAP!

Answer 4

Is it a 'red' pink, like an infection, or a 'soft pink' like a blush?

A red pink can indicate a nasty infection that should be seen by a vet. A softer pink can be irritation, minor infection, etc.

Shell shedding is a sign of stress. You may want to review the basic cares, housing, and diet at a good site like http://www.austinsturtlepage.com